Kogi State government has banned all traditional processions in Kotonkarfe, Kogi Local Government Area of the state, following security reports from the area.
Announcing the development in a statement made available to Daily Intel Newspaper on Tuesday, the state Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Femi Fanwo said the decision is aimed at curbing plans by some elements in the area to disturb the peace of the ancient town.
“Acting on security reports in order to maintain the peace enjoyed in Kotonkarfe and its environs in Kogi Local Government Area of the State, the Kogi State Government hereby announces a ban on all forms of procession in Kotonkarfe and neighboring communities.
“His Excellency Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo reiterates his administration’s commitment to peaceful co-existence among all Kotonkarfe people and will always leave his doors open to listen to complaints and grievances rather than resort to violence.
“We urge all concerned to strictly abide by the ban as violators will be treated as enemies of peace and the State. The decision of the State Government is aimed at protecting the rights of the Kotonkarfe people, and indeed all Kogites, to peace and security.
“We urge law enforcement agents to enforce the ban in accordance with the laws of the land. Kotonkarfe people should also be committed to peace and harmony as the Government is prepared to protect them from violence,” Fanwo said.
